12.

3 Hydrostatic Testing
12.3.1 When Hydrostatic Testing is RequiredA full hydrostatic test, held for 24 hours,
shall be performed on the following.
a) A reconstructed tank.
b) Any tank that has undergone major repairs or major alterations (see Section 3) unless
exempted by 12.3.2 for the
applicable combination of materials, design, and construction features.
c) A tank where an engineering evaluation indicates the need for the hydrostatic test due
to an increase in the
severity of service. Examples of increased service severity are an increase in operating
pressure (such as storing
a product with a higher specific gravity), lowering the service temperature (see Figure
5.2), and using tanks that
have been damaged.
12.3.2 Hydrostatic Testing Exemptions (Major Repairs/Alterations)
12.3.2.1 General
A full hydrostatic test of the tank is not required for major repairs and major alterations if
12.3.2.2 is satisfied plus
either of the following:
a) appropriate parts of 12.3.2.3 through 12.3.2.6, or alternatively;
b) fitness-for-service evaluation per 12.3.2.7.
12.3.2.2 Review/Approval/Authorization Requirements
Items a) and b) below must be satisfied.
a) The repair has been reviewed and approved by an engineer experienced in storage tank
design in accordance
with API 650. The engineer must concur in writing with taking the hydrostatic testing
exemption.
b) The tank owner/operator has authorized the exemption in writing.